A guide to nurse prescribing of insecticides and anthelmintics.

Several drug preparations are available to the nurse prescriber to treat parasitic infestations, most commonly head lice, scabies and threadworms. It is vital that the nurse has a thorough knowledge of the types of preparations available, together with an understanding of the non-pharmacological interventions to eradicate infestation. Many people may be treated without the intervention of a doctor, but the nurse prescriber should ensure that those who are affected receive appropriate referral to their GP if there are special circumstances, secondary infestation or a suspected infestation by roundworms.